The 30 best restaurants in Boston right now

What is it? One of Brookline’s hardest reservations, and for good reason. The chefs at Bar Vlaha bring us the foods of the Vlach people—an inland community of nomadic shepherds whose traditions stretch back centuries in Greece. The menu leans rustic and old-world, with a spread that moves from hearth-baked breads and creamy spreads to slow-cooked meats and boldly seasoned vegetables. This isn't your typical neighborhood souvlaki spot; it’s an elemental, fire-driven menu that feels like a genuine piece of the Greek mountains dropped right onto Beacon Street.

Why we love it: The room is filled with the intoxicating aromas of charcoal-grilled and spit-roasted meats you won’t find at your neighborhood souvlaki spot. Depending on the night, that might mean wild boar shank, grilled rainbow trout, or the occasional special like venison or elk. A lively bar anchors the space, pouring standout wines and creative cocktails infused with Greek-leaning ingredients like pineapple liqueur, fig- and ginger-infused tsipouro, and pine pollen. It’s a place that feels celebratory without being flashy, grounded in tradition but very much alive.

Time Out tip: Don’t skip the daily specials—they’re often where the kitchen gets most expressive. And if you can snag a bar seat, do it: it’s the best way to soak up the energy while easing into the menu with a drink or two before committing to a full spread.

Address: 1653 Beacon St, Brookline, MA 02445

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 5–11pm; Sat, Sun 10am–3pm and 5–11pm

Expect to pay: This isn’t cheap pub grub, but it’s worth it for the craftsmanship and hospitality. Expect $14–$40 per plate, with a typical night out landing in the $60–$100+ per person range with drinks.

What is it? Foodie friend groups pretty much always want to book Sarma, and for good reason. Ten years in, this Somerville favorite still feels restless in the best way, with shareable new creations appearing on the menu frequently. The cooking draws from Mediterranean flavors and meze traditions, delivered as vibrant small plates designed for passing, debating, and ordering one more round. A deep bench of vegetarian options makes Sarma especially appealing to mixed tables, but nothing here feels like an afterthought.

Why we love it: Sarma has a reputation for booking out, but it’s also refreshingly democratic: bar seats are held for walk-ins, and they’re some of the best spots in the house. Even if you have to wait, anticipation is part of the fun. Chef-owner Cassie Piuma’s long-running collaboration with co-owner Ana Sortun, which began at Greater Boston’s grande dame of meze, Oleana, shows in the confidence of the menu and the sense of play running through it. This is food that takes flavor seriously without taking itself too seriously.

Time Out tip: Start with the warm gyro bread and don’t skip the “schmear,” whether that’s seven-layer hummus or avocado muhummara. From there, let the table roam: cauliflower romanesco with red-hot tahini and blue-cheese yogurt, Persian beef brik handpies, and the sesame-fried chicken if it happens to be making the rounds. Cocktails are worth attention, too, often built around ingredients like prickly pear, Moroccan bitters, or chai yogurt. If you’re walking in, aim for an early or late bar seat and stay flexible — it pays off here.

Address: 249 Pearl St, Somerville, MA 02145

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 5:30–10pm; Fri, Sat 5:30–11pm

Expect to pay: $50 to $100 per person will get you a spread of small plates along with an entree. 

What is it? One of Boston’s spendiest restaurants, o ya is an experience to savor—not only because it’ll cost you close to $300 just to get in the door, but because it’s one of the few places that actually justifies the hype. This is high-stakes omakase in a hushed, 100-year-old firehouse where the outside world completely disappears.

Why we love it: The Cushmans’ crown-jewel tasting menu set the bar for special-occasion dining in Boston over 15 years ago, and it hasn't budged. The roughly 20-course parade is a masterclass in precision—think luxury ingredients like wagyu and truffle used with restraint rather than just for show. It isn't “accessible” dining, and that’s the point: you come here for a meal that ruins all other sushi for you.

Time Out tip: Don’t just book a table—try to snag a seat at the mahogany counter. Watching the chefs work is half the value of the ticket. Eat lightly beforehand and give yourself the full three hours; this isn't a “quick bite” before a show; dinner at o ya is a show within itself.

Address: 9 E St, Boston, MA 02111

Opening hours: Tue–Sat 5–11pm

Expect to pay: A lot. Prepaid reservations are $295 per person. There is a beverage-pairing option for an $160, or you can order by the glass. Tack on a little more for tax, and admin and service fees. 

What is it? Not your everyday Thai restaurant, Brookline's Mahaniyom is modeled after a style of bar in the owners’ native Thailand, where street food, drinking, and socializing blur together. The menu is intentionally tighter than what you’ll find at most Thai spots around Boston. Rather than covering every popular Thai dish, Mahaniyom zeroes in on plates that feel considered and confidently executed, served in a space that’s lively without being chaotic.

Why we love it: Though the menu may look small at first glance, nearly every dish lands with impact. Flavors are bold, layered, and unapologetic, rewarding diners who are willing to order adventurously. The bar program is just as strong, with dazzling cocktails that marry Thai and Asian flavors to classic techniques — the signature Mahaniyom Sazerac, made with Thai tea–infused rye, is reason enough to linger. 

Time Out tip: Don’t skip the chalkboard specials — they’re often the most exciting part of the meal. If oysters are on offer, especially dressed with chili jam and crispy shallots, order them. And come with friends if you can: sharing makes it easier to sample across the menu without overthinking it.

Address: 236 Washington St, Brookline, MA 02445

Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 11:30am–2, 4–10pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am–2, 4–11pm; Sun noon–2pm, 4–10pm

Expect to pay: Small plates give you the chance to basically pay as you wish—especially if you're with friends and are able to share. You could reasonably get away with $31 to $50 for an app, tapas and a drink. Not so bad for a "best restaurant," huh? 

What is it? Chic and soulful in the heart of Dorchester, 2024 James Beard Foundation nominee Comfort Kitchen is one of the most delightfully run dining rooms in the city. Set inside a historic building with a quaint patio, the restaurant balances polish with warmth, offering a dining experience that’s celebratory without feeling formal.

Why we love it: The menu shines a deliberate light on ingredients and traditions central to BIPOC communities, without turning the meal into a lecture. Dinner and drinks are bold, expressive, and deeply satisfying, while the setting keeps things approachable and neighborhood-driven. 

Time Out tip: Go hungry and order widely. Standouts include brown-butter–seared okra with masala-spiced yogurt and plantain chips, jerk-roasted duck confit served with rice, beans, and Haitian pikliz, and cocktails that are as thoughtful as the food. Don’t skip the Baobab Cocktail — a punchy, free-spirited mix of baobab, ginger, orange, and Nepali Tea Traders white tea. If the weather cooperates, snag a table on the patio to make the most of the setting.

Address: 611 Columbia Rd, Dorchester, MA 02125

Opening hours: Tue–Fri 4:30–10pm; Sat 10am–3pm, 4:30–10pm; Sun 10am–3pm, 4:30–8pm

Expect to pay: Around $50 to $100, with higher bills, of course containing a cocktail or two. 

What is it? The Boston area’s grande dame of Eastern Mediterranean cooking, Oleana has been a Cambridge fixture since opening in 2001 under the guidance of chef Ana Sortun. Long before vegetable-forward menus became fashionable, Oleana was already setting the tone, drawing on Middle Eastern flavors and spice traditions with a confidence that helped define the city’s dining scene.

Why we love it: The meze menu remains the heart of the experience, offering perfectly spiced plates that work for nearly every kind of diner. Whether you’re craving feta kataifi, Vermont quail kebabs, or one of the many vegetarian-friendly dishes that have earned Oleana its devoted following, the kitchen delivers flavor without intimidation. The restaurant also boasts one of the most coveted outdoor dining setups in the region: a lush, transportive garden that turns dinner into a destination all its own when the weather cooperates.

Time Out tip: Leave room for dessert—non-negotiable. Executive pastry chef and co-owner Maura Kilpatrick is a star in her own right, and her sweets are as essential as the savory menu. Homemade ice creams rotate regularly, pistachio and cardamom baklava hits the right balance of richness and restraint, and the Baked Alaska remains a showstopper worthy of sharing. If you’re dining in the garden, book well ahead and plan to linger.

Address: 134 Hampshire St, Cambridge, MA 02139

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 5:30–10pm; Fri, Sat 5:30–10:30pm

Expect to pay: A typical meal runs $75–$100 per person, depending on how deep you go into the meze and drinks. Add dessert (you should) or a bottle of wine, and that number climbs—but it’s money well spent.

What is it? A quietly magnetic restaurant serving Italian-inspired New American cooking, Pammy’s sits comfortably between Central and Harvard squares, drawing a steady crowd of locals, regulars, and people who know exactly what they’re doing. The space feels intimate and stylish without trying too hard, anchored by a marble bar that’s become one of the most desirable seats in the neighborhood.

Why we love it: Pammy’s rewards curiosity. The menu reads Italian at first glance, but dishes pull freely from Asian and African pantries, weaving unexpected flavors into crudo, vegetable-forward plates, handmade pastas, and thoughtfully cooked proteins. Everything arrives composed and beautiful. There’s a confidence here—quiet, assured, and consistent—that makes the restaurant feel special night after night, whether you’re settling in for a full meal or just grazing.

Time Out tip: Skip the formalities and aim for the bar. Snagging a seat at the marble counter lets you order à la carte and ease into the menu with a spritz or two, rather than committing to the dining room’s required $88 prix-fixe. It’s the most relaxed way to experience Pammy’s—and often the most fun.

Address: 928 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–9:30pm; Fri, Sat 5–10:30pm

Expect to pay: Reservations in the dining room are for Pammy’s $88 Choose-Your-Own-Adventure prix-fixe menu. At the bar, ordering à la carte keeps things more flexible; either way, expect $90–$120 per person once drinks are in the mix.

What is it? Chef-owner Will Gilson’s charming Inman Square staple, Puritan & Co. highlights locally sourced, seasonal ingredients through an elevated New England lens. The menu leans classic without feeling dated, built around fresh seafood, high-quality meats, decadent pastas, and farm-fresh vegetables and herbs pulled from around the region. Plates are polished but never fussy, balancing comfort and refinement in a way that feels distinctly rooted in place.

Why we love it: A meal at Puritan & Co. feels like a guided tour through the flavors and techniques that have shaped New England cooking for generations. Fish and meat are cured and smoked in-house whenever possible, while butter and cheeses are whipped with fresh herbs and sea salts for extra depth. The dining room reinforces that sense of history, outfitted with antique chairs, beautiful vintage flatware, and a striking 1920 Glenwood oven that now serves as the host stand — the same range on which Gilson first learned to cook. It’s thoughtful without being nostalgic and confident without showing off.

Time Out tip: Don’t skip the Parker House rolls, served steaming with yogurt and sea salt–whipped cultured butter — they set the tone for the rest of the meal. From there, look to the Berkshire pork chop with polenta and maple jus, or whatever seasonal seafood is shining. If you’re drinking, the Somerville Sling, with pineapple and fresh mint, is a house favorite, and the wine list is deep and expertly curated — worth leaning on the staff for guidance.

Address: 1166 Cambridge St, Cambridge, MA 02139

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5–9pm; Fri, Sat 5pm-10pm; Sun 10:30am–2pm, 5–9pm

Expect to pay: $80–$100 will get you the Parker House rolls, a starter, entree and a drink. 

What is it? An eclectic collective founded by classically trained chefs Jeremy Kean and Philip Kruta, Brassica Kitchen + Café serves inspired takes on global bistro cuisine accented by house-made hot sauces. The restaurant recently expanded into the former Dogwood Café space next door, gaining a larger, more open layout with increased seating, a more contemporary look, an expansive bar, and a brick oven now turning out a rotating lineup of pizzas. They've expanded their hours, too. 

Why we love it: This James Beard–nominated restaurant feels right at home in funky, punky Jamaica Plain. The menu pulls from around the world and lands squarely on flavor, balancing comfort and creativity without getting precious. The move into the larger space gives the room more energy while keeping the same laid-back, neighborhood-first feel.

Time Out tip: Don’t fill up on the made-from-scratch fried chicken, as tempting as it is. The menu is packed with standouts, including a decadent pork belly topped with melted marshmallow (trust us, it’s to-die); rich B.K. mussels swimming in a Thai-style broth; and the essential Brassica donut for dessert. If you spot a curious bright green cocktail floating around the room, it’s the Meguro, made with spirulina, rye whiskey, lime, ginger, and vanilla—and worth ordering if that sounds like your thing.

Address: 3710 Washington St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 5–11pm; Fri 5–11pm; Sat 10am–3pm, 5–11pm; Sun 10–3:30pm

Expect to pay: Around $80 per person will get you three small plates and a drink. You could also opt to pay $95 for "The Run," Brassica's worth-it version of a chef's tasting, but that doesn't include drinks. These prices do not reflect the mandatory 23% gratuity tax charged to every bill. 

What is it? A modern-day Boston classic, Myers + Chang serves a playful, deeply craveable mix of Chinese, Taiwanese, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes from James Beard Award–winning chef-owner Joanne Chang. Opened long before pan-Asian small plates became commonplace, the restaurant still feels lively and relevant, drawing a steady mix of regulars, first-timers, and industry folks who know exactly what they’re doing.

Why we love it: The room is snug and convivial, ideal for a fun night out that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The menu hits that rare sweet spot between comfort and excitement, delivering bold flavors without fuss or flash. It’s also one of the city’s best examples of a restaurant aging gracefully—still busy, still reliable, and still capable of surprising you if you let it.

Time Out tip: Take advantage of the “Great Date Night” menu, offered Monday through Thursday starting at 4pm. It’s a well-priced, shareable spread designed for two that makes it easy to dig in without overthinking the order. Expect a wait during peak hours—it’s part of the deal here.

Address: 1145 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118

Opening hours: Mon–Wed 4–9pm; Thu–Sat 11:30am–10pm; Sun 11:30am–9pm

Expect to pay: You can put together a satisfying meal for $50–$75 per person, especially if you’re sharing plates and keeping drinks modest.

What is it? Perched three stories above the Theater District, Mooncusser is an elegant Bay Village dining room serving nightly four-course tasting menus from Top Chef alum Carl Dooley. It’s refined without being pretentious, and intentionally focused: one menu, one path, no distractions.

Why we love it: This is one of Boston’s most polished dining experiences, but the food itself is anything but staid. Dooley’s cooking leans global and vibrant, with spice, acid, and contrast driving each course. Meals often open with a sequence of raw dishes before moving into more structured plates, all built around seasonal New England ingredients filtered through a restless, creative lens. A summer menu might include yellowfin tuna sashimi with pickled cherries and ponzu, glazed local fluke with saffron and corn, or a quietly perfect fior di latte gelato to finish. It’s thoughtful, progressive cooking that rewards attention without demanding reverence.

Time Out tip: If you want a taste of Dooley’s cooking without committing to the full tasting menu, head downstairs. Mooncusser’s more casual sibling, Moon Bar, offers his food à la carte alongside sharp, seasonal cocktails—ideal for a lower-key night that still feels special.

Address: 304 Stuart St, Boston, MA 02116

Opening hours: Tue–Sat 5–9pm

Expect to pay: $125 for the tasting menu. A wine-pairing option adds $65, or you can order a glass separately. 

What is it? An intimate, meat-forward offshoot of Woods Hill Pier 4 in the Seaport. The Block pares things back to charcuterie, butcher cuts, and small plates, trading the parent restaurant’s scale for a cozier, moodier room built for lingering over excellent meats and wine.

Why we love it: When you’re craving protein, you can’t get much better than this. It delivers everything you want from a steakhouse without the stuffy vibe. The back dining room sets the tone, with a glass-enclosed meat cooler where whole cuts hang in full view and a butcher counter displayed behind glass, reinforcing how seriously this place takes its meat. Out front, views of the pier and the ICA building add a dose of drama and sex appeal that keeps the experience feeling distinctly Seaport.

Time Out tip: Start with the charcuterie board—especially if the foie gras terrine is in the mix—then move on to a main like the expertly cooked short rib, which hits that sweet spot of richness and restraint. A biodynamic Pinot Noir or classic Cabernet from the wine list pairs especially well with the heavier cuts.

Expect to pay: Charcuterie and small plates keep things flexible, but once you add a main and a glass or two of wine, dinner for one typically lands in the $75–$110 range.

What is it? For all its dynamism, Ken Oringer’s Spanish tapas restaurant Toro remains unchanged in the ways that matter. Nearly two decades after opening, it’s still one of the South End’s most reliably fun and delicious dining rooms, delivering bold flavors with confidence and zero nostalgia drag.

Why we love it: The cozy, industrial space stays packed for good reason. The menu is built for grazing and sharing, anchored by Barcelona-style tapas that reward repeat visits. The energy is high, the pace is social, and the room encourages ordering widely and lingering longer than planned.

Time Out tip: Don’t sleep on the hidden backyard patio. It’s one of the South End’s best-kept dining secrets and the place to be when the weather cooperates—arrive early or be ready to wait. If the patio's full (and it will be), the bar makes for a fun spot to sit, too. 

Address: 1704 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5–11pm; Sun 11am–3pm, 5–10pm

Expect to pay: Most tapas fall in the $8–$20 range, making it easy to build a meal around sharing. With a few plates and drinks, expect $60–$90 per person, depending on how enthusiastic you get with the vermouth.

What is it? Perched on the 17th floor of the Raffles hotel, Amar is NYC Michelin-starred chef George Mendes’s take on modern Portuguese cuisine, delivered in a polished, high-rise setting that feels unmistakably “uptown.”

Why we love it: Amar—named for the Portuguese word for “love”—draws heavily from the dishes Mendes grew up eating, reworked with restraint and elegance rather than showmanship. The cooking feels rooted and personal, balancing comfort with refinement, while the dining room’s height and views give the meal a sense of occasion without tipping into stiffness.

Time Out tip: Save room for dessert. The made-to-order pão de ló sponge cake—an airy Iberian egg-yolk cake served with smoked cinnamon ice cream—is worth planning around. If you’re ordering savory highlights, the Peking duck, finished with a vibrant sauce poured tableside, is a clear standout.

Address: 40 Trinity Pl, Boston, MA 02116

Opening hours: Wed–Sun 5:30–10pm

Expect to pay: Dinner typically runs $75–$100 per person, though lighter ordering from the lower-priced small plates can keep things closer to the bottom end of that range.

What is it? A convivial, chic Greek wine bar, Krasi spotlights off-the-beaten-path meze and fire-grilled souvla, backed by one of the most compelling Greek wine selections in the city.

Why we love it: Krasi lives up to its name (it means “wine”) with more than 180 natural and organic bottles sourced exclusively from Greece—many of them surprises even seasoned drinkers won’t recognize. The food keeps pace, pushing beyond the expected with thoughtful twists on traditional dishes and celebratory spreads clearly meant for sharing. It’s lively, generous, and built for long, wine-fueled evenings.

Time Out tip: Start with the house-made breads—especially the halloumi-stuffed tiropita rolls—then let the table grow outward. Order spreads like tzatziki mixed tableside, follow with grilled octopus, and don’t skip the orange wine section of the list.

Address: 48 Gloucester St, Boston, MA 02115

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 5–11pm, Sat, Sun 10am–3pm, 5–11pm

Expect to pay: A little less than $100 per person for a starter, entree and one drink each. 

What is it? Boston’s first Venetian-style osteria and wine bar, SRV balances modern interpretations of cicchetti (small bites) with standout pastas, risottos, and thoughtfully executed vegetable-forward plates.

Why we love it: Located near the corner of Columbus Avenue and Mass Ave, SRV is a go-to for pre-theater dinners and long, wine-fueled nights. The room hums with energy, and when the weather cooperates, the outdoor patio ranks among the South End’s best places to linger over another glass.

Time Out tip: Order the fixed-price Arsenale menu and let the kitchen take the lead. It’s the easiest way to experience the breadth of the menu, with seasonal, shareable plates arriving one after another—no decision-making required.

Address: 569 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA 02118

Opening hours: Mon–Wed 5–9pm; Thu–Sat 5–10pm; Sun 4–9pm

Expect to pay: The Arsenale menu runs at a set price, $67, and makes budgeting easy; most dinners clock in around $70–$90 per person, with drinks extra.

What is it? With a global perspective on the day’s freshest catch, Moëca is a seafood restaurant in a school of its own. The Cambridge spot is the seafood-driven sibling to nearby Italian favorite Giulia, and it shares the same precision, confidence, and ingredient-first mindset.

Why we love it: The menu changes frequently—often nightly—tracking what’s coming in from the water and local farms. Seafood leads the way, but vegetables and pasta are treated with equal care, creating a meal that feels balanced rather than heavy. One night might bring herb-laced crudo with stone fruit, smoked trout on a potato flatbread, or udon noodles tangled with curried mussels. It’s focused, seasonal cooking that rewards repeat visits.

Time Out tip: Save room for dessert. Pastry chef Renae Connolly’s sweets are quietly exceptional, and the house-made gelato is a must-order—simple, perfectly textured, and the ideal way to land the meal.

Address: 1 Shepard St, Cambridge, MA 02138

Opening hours: Tue–Sat 5:30–10pm

Expect to pay: Most dinners land in the $75–$100 per person range once you factor in a few shared plates and a drink, with the ever-changing menu encouraging a little exploration.

What it is: A stylish Beacon Hill pintxo bar from BCB3 Hospitality, Zurito channels the casual, snack-driven bars of Spain’s Basque region. Tucked just off Charles Street, the intimate space pairs an energetic front bar with a darker, more traditional dining room, all centered around Spanish tapas designed for sharing, grazing, and lingering. It’s a place built for movement rather than formality, where the night unfolds one bite at a time.

Why we love it: Zurito stands out for its commitment to true pintxo-bar rhythm: small bites ordered instinctively, thoughtfully paired drinks, and a room that encourages conversation and spontaneous decision-making. The award-winning wine list runs deep, with a smart range of Spanish whites, rosés, and reds that feel tailor-made for the menu. Everything works together—the pacing, the pours, the energy—making it easy to settle in and stay longer than planned.

Time Out tip: Start light and build slowly. The croissant de ibérico stuffed with acorn-fed jamón and the classic pan con tomate are ideal openers, followed by anchovy-forward pintxos and richer plates like squid-ink orzo or griddled seafood. Sit at the bar if you can for the full experience, and don’t hesitate to ask for wine recommendations—the list rewards curiosity.

Address: 26 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–10pm; Fri 5–11pm; Sat noon–11pm; Sun noon–9pm

Expect to pay: Most pintxos land in the low-to-mid teens, with larger plates climbing higher; dinner for one with a few bites and drinks typically runs $75–$100, depending on how deep you go into the wine list.

What is it? Tucked inside a luxuriously updated Back Bay townhouse, Select Oyster Bar is a petite raw bar and seafood restaurant from chef-partner Michael Serpa, built for nights that feel a little special.

Why we love it: Drawing on his time at the North End’s iconic Neptune Oyster, Serpa approaches local seafood with a Mediterranean lens, letting pristine ingredients lead while adding just enough flair. The room is intimate and polished without being stiff, making it an easy choice for date nights, celebrations, or whenever oysters feel like the right answer. Serpa also curates the wine list himself, and it shows. The restaurant’s consistency and craft have earned it a Michelin Guide recommendation, reinforcing its status as one of the city’s most dependable seafood destinations.

Time Out tip: Lean into the crudo—the Faroe Islands salmon with pistachio oil and togarashi is silky and spot-on—and order the “taverna-style” whole-roasted sea bream for the table if you’re with company. The wine list regularly features orange wines and seafood-friendly sparkling rosé, both smart picks with raw and roasted dishes alike.

Address: 50 Gloucester St, Boston, MA 02115

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 11:30am–9:30pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am–10:30pm

Expect to pay: You can splurge well into the $100+ range with towers and bottles, but a solid meal with restraint typically lands around $75 per person.

What is it: A two-time James Beard Award semifinalist in the far reaches of the Seaport that puts a creative Mediterranean spin on large and small plates, and pastas made with ingredients sourced from New England. 

Why we love it: For its dynamic and seasonally inspired menu, which expertly blends fresh, local ingredients with exciting Mediterranean flavors evident in their rotating mezze, diverse small plates and pastas, and satisfying large plates. The culinary creativity extends to Chickadee's equally inventive cocktail program, featuring fresh and unique ingredients. Knowledgeable servers are ready and eager to guide diners through their extensive options.

Time Out tip: For those who appreciate food textures, the squid ink fusilli mentioned earlier is a must-try. The chewy texture of the flavorful sopressata combined with the crunch of dehydrated olive bread crumbs creates a truly revelatory experience.

Address: 21 Drydock Ave, Boston, MA 02210

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5–9pm; Fri 5–10pm; Sat 11am–2pm, 5–10pm; Sun 11am–2pm, 5–9pm

Expect to pay: Most dinners at Chickadee land in the $70–$95 per person range when you order a few small plates and at least one drink.

What is it? Bright, authentic Peruvian cooking in the heart of Union Square, Celeste delivers bold flavors in a compact, always-buzzing room.

Why we love it: Plenty of restaurants talk about social dining, but Celeste actually pulls it off. The cooking is adventurous and instinctive, with dish after dish landing confidently from the open kitchen—seafood-forward, pepper-driven, and unapologetically potato-centric in the best Peruvian tradition. The energy is high, the room feels alive, and ordering one more plate always seems like the right move.

Time Out tip: Start with ceviche and don’t rush it. Fruity shrimp ceviche, beefy lomo saltado, and whatever’s catching the kitchen’s attention that night make for a perfect progression. The bar leans into mezcal and pisco, so it’s worth exploring a cocktail or two along the way.

Address: 21 Bow St, Somerville, MA 02143

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5–11pm; Sun 4–9pm

Expect to pay: A starter and entrée typically run $55–$60 per person, with drinks pushing things a bit higher.

What is it? Tucked just off the bustle of Union Square, Field & Vine feels like Somerville’s own secret garden. The New American restaurant is the work of chef Andrew Brady and wine pro Sara Markey—also the duo behind Junebug and Dear Annie—and centers on farm-sourced cooking with a quietly confident point of view.

Why we love it: The Scandinavian-leaning interior of pale wood and greenery strikes a rare balance: cool and comfortable enough for a neighborhood regular spot, yet polished enough for a special night out. A dramatic canopy of gnarled vines draws the eye to the open kitchen at the center of the room, giving diners a front-row seat to the action and reinforcing the restaurant’s sense of intention and calm.

Time Out tip: Vegetables are the star here, but this isn’t a vegetarian-only affair. Brady’s liberal use of herbs and rich, well-judged sauces elevates produce to its best possible form, while seafood and meat dishes add depth rather than stealing focus. Order broadly and let the balance reveal itself.

Address: 9 Sanborn Ct, Somerville, MA 02143

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5–8:45pm; Fri, Sat 5–9:30pm

Expect to pay: Most dinners land in the $80–$120 per person range once you’ve ordered several plates to share and a drink. Opting for the tasting menu, of course, will run that bill higher.

What is it? Shojo opened in 2012 and immediately scrambled expectations in Chinatown, mixing pan-Asian small plates, hip-hop, anime visuals, and cocktails that mattered. Often cited as Boston’s first Asian-fusion small-plates-and-drinks bar, it now has a second location in Central Square.

Why we love it: Brian Moy—second-gen Chinatown restaurateur—knows how to build food that sticks in your head. The menu leans salty, funky, rich, and shareable, with cult hits like Wu-Tang Tiger Style Ribs (hoisin-Thai barbecue, peanuts, lime) and “Shadowless” duck-fat fries drowned in mapo tofu and kimcheese. It’s indulgent, unapologetic, and still fun.

Time Out tip: Skip the decision fatigue and order the Shojonator: a part-burger, part-bao hybrid in a house-steamed sesame bun, stacked with bacon, fried shallots, and kimcheese.

Address: 9A Tyler St, Boston, MA 02111; 425 Massachusetts Ave Unit 4B, Cambridge, MA 02139

Opening hours: Chinatown: Sun, Mon 11:30am–9pm; Tue, Wed 11:30am–11pm; Thu–Sat 11:30am–midnight | Cambridge: Mon 5–9pm; Tue, Wed 11am–9pm; Thu 11am–10pm; Fri, Sat 11am–midnight; Sun 11am–9pm

Expect to pay: About $45–$55 per person for a couple of small plates and one larger dish; cocktails extra.

What is it? Born from an Asian BBQ pop-up by Chefs Kim Vo and Lukas Dow, Judy's Bay officially landed a brick-and-mortar home in Cambridge in November 2021. Today, the cozy New England izakaya masterfully blends local seafood with the vibrant flavors of Japan and East Asia. Think of it as a charming seaside tavern, but with serious culinary skills.

Why we love it: Judy's Bay is an approachable yet subtly stylish space that's perfect for an intimate dinner with friends or a partner. An exposed-brick fireplace anchors the room, casting a warm glow on chilly evenings that illuminates simple wood tables, vibrant seat cushions, and playful Japanese prints featuring sea creatures. The menu is a celebration of fresh, locally sourced seafood married with Japanese and East Asian flavors. Standouts include Maine mussels steeped in gochujang butter, the zesty spicy squid salad, or the monkfish katsu. The in-house pounded kinako mochi is an absolute must-try for dessert. While wine is off the menu, the curated selection of Japanese whiskeys, sake flights, beer, cider, and Japanese-inspired cocktails and mocktails ensures there's a libation for everyone.

Time Out tip: If you're a party of six or fewer, make sure to request the fireside booth! It's especially perfect during the colder months for a truly cozy and intimate meal beside the crackling, exposed-brick fireplace.

Address: 279a Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02139

Opening hours: Wed–Sat 5–9pm

Expect to pay: Dinner here runs into the mid-range to higher side for izakaya-style small plates — most people spend around $50–$75 per person on a selection of small dishes and a drink, with sake flights or cocktails adding to the bill.

What is it? Spoke Wine Bar is a cozy, low-key spot in Davis Square that treats small plates as a playground for local, seasonal cooking—pared down, thoughtful, and quietly inventive rather than showy.

Why we love it: Co-chefs Paul Butler and Kelcey Rusch cook with curiosity and restraint, landing on combinations you didn’t know you wanted but immediately understand. Think sunchoke donuts dusted with powdered leeks, or griddled chickpea tempeh with maple-vinegar that eats like vegan chicken tenders with honey mustard. It’s clever food that doesn’t announce itself as such.

Time Out tip: Come hungry but not rushed—this is a place to order a few plates, linger, and let the pacing (and the wine) do some of the work.

Address: 89 Holland St, Somerville, MA 02144

Opening hours: Wed–Sat 5–11pm

Expect to pay: Around $45–$60 per person, depending on how many small plates you share and whether you add a glass or two from the wine list.

What is it? haley.henry is a snug Downtown Crossing wine bar pairing low-intervention bottles with a pared-down menu of seafood, tinned fish, charcuterie, and smart, snackable plates meant for lingering.

Why we love it: Owner Haley Fortier (also behind Nathálie) brings deep industry chops and a sharp curatorial eye, spotlighting small producers—especially women winemakers—across a list that favors personality over prestige. The food stays light on its feet: watermelon gazpacho, refined toasts, and composed salads that play well with whatever’s in your glass.

Time Out tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, commit to two glasses. The staff will crack open any available bottle, making it easy to try something unexpected without turning it into homework.

Address: 45 Province St, Boston, MA 02108

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 3–11pm; Fri 3pm–midnight; Sat noon–midnight

Expect to pay: About $65 to $75 per person a few plates and a glass of wine. 

What is it? Sushi @ Temple Records is a stylish, dimly lit sushi bar hidden below street level, led by chef Kenta Katagai. The menu leans Edomae-style, with fish that’s cured, marinated, or lightly torched to deepen flavor, then finished with precision—soy brushed on, wasabi tucked neatly between fish and rice.

Why we love it: The Edomae approach makes this an easy entry point for sushi skeptics while still rewarding purists. Service is attentive to the point of feeling almost overstaffed, delivering a level of guidance and care that recalls pricier omakase counters, even though ordering here is à la carte. The drinks program holds its own, with a strong focus on sake and shochu, plus Japanese beer and a concise wine list.

Time Out tip: In the mood for a cocktail? Guests can order drinks from Temple Records, the listening lounge upstairs, and have them brought down to the sushi bar.

Address: 11 Temple Pl, Boston, MA 02111

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5–10:30pm

Expect to pay: Around $75–$100 per person for a well-rounded selection of nigiri, rolls, and a drink or two.

What is it? Talulla is a cozy, intimate restaurant in Cambridge from husband-and-wife team Conor Dennehy and Danielle Ayer. The menu shifts with the seasons and highlights fresh, local meats, fish, vegetables, grains and cheeses in beautifully prepared and presented plates.

Why we love it: Talulla feels like a special night out without feeling distant. With only about a dozen white-tablecloth-draped tables and genuinely warm service, it strikes a balance between polished and approachable. Chef Dennehy, a 2024 James Beard Award nominee, builds menus that change daily and can be enjoyed à la carte or through a multi-course experience, while sommelier Ayer curates a wine list organized by flavor profile and offers aperitif-style cocktails that thoughtfully complement each dish.

Time Out tip: Talulla operates a no-tipping policy — a 23% administrative fee is added to all checks to support staff wages directly.

Address: 377 Walden St, Cambridge, MA 02138

Opening hours: Wed–Sun 5–8:30pm

Expect to pay: The tasting experience is around $95 per person with an optional wine pairing around $65; à la carte starters, pastas and mains generally range from the mid-teens to the mid-40s.

What is it? Puritan Oyster Bar is the tight, seafood-forward sibling to Puritan & Co., added next door by chef Will Gilson in early 2023. Think raw bar classics, polished small plates and just enough heft to turn a drink stop into dinner.

Why we love it: It threads the needle between casual and considered. You can pop in for oysters and a martini after work or settle in with a colleague or discerning relative and feel equally well-placed. The menu plays to New England strengths—ice-cold shellfish, crudos and seafood-driven plates—without overcomplicating things.

Time Out tip: Start with the freezer martini, then let the rest follow naturally. A tower of shellfish is rarely the wrong call.

Address: 1164 Cambridge St, Cambridge, MA 02139

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 5–9pm; Fri, Sat 5–10pm

Expect to pay: $50–$100 per person for a full meal, but you can cut that in half with half-price oysters every day from 5 to 6pm. 

What is it? Grace by Nia is a Seaport clubstaurant from Roxbury-born restaurateur Nia Grace in partnership with Big Night Entertainment. It marries a lively live music program with Southern-inspired comfort food and a full bar, all under one pulsating roof.

Why we love it: It’s built for nights that feel like more than dinner. Regular live music — especially on weekends and for brunch — gives the space its own rhythm, while the kitchen turns out broad, craveable plates from reimagined Southern staples to seafood, ribs and more. The vibe lands equally for dates, celebratory dinners or a night out with friends, thanks to punchy cocktails and soulful sets that hover between background and main event.

Time Out tip: Check the performance calendar before booking — Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday brunch are especially lively. Getting in early for the first set makes the most of the room’s energy.

Address: 60 Seaport Blvd #325, Boston, MA 02210

Opening hours: Fri 5:30pm–1am; Sat 5pm–1am; Sun noon–3:30pm, 5–10pm

Expect to pay: Around $75–$100 per person for shared plates and a couple of drinks, with higher checks likely if you lean into premium cocktails or plan for multiple rounds.